Before You Give a Cleaner Your Keys, Do These 9 Checks

Handing over a key is a statement of trust. Whether you hire an independent cleaner, a live-out housekeeper or someone through an agency, they will usually be alone in your home with your belongings. These checks help you hire with confidence and keep the relationship fair for both sides.

1. Decide between an agency and an independent worker

Agencies typically handle vetting, insurance and replacements, at a higher price. Independent workers may cost less and build a closer working relationship, but you take responsibility for the checks yourself. Neither is automatically safer — the checks matter more than the route.

2. Verify identity

See original photo identification and make sure the name matches references, payment details and any agreement you sign.

3. Speak to at least two references

Call previous clients rather than relying on written notes. Ask how long they used the service, whether anything went missing or was damaged, how issues were handled and whether they still use them.

4. Check the right to work and employment status

Depending on where you live and how the arrangement is structured, you may be an employer with legal obligations, or you may be a customer of a self-employed person. Find out which applies to you.

5. Ask about insurance

Independent cleaners and agencies may carry liability insurance that covers accidental damage. Ask to see it, and check your own home insurance for what is covered.

6. Agree the work in writing

List tasks, hours, rate, payment schedule, cancellation terms and how keys and alarm codes are handled. Clear expectations prevent most disputes.

7. Handle keys and access carefully

• Use a key that does not carry your address
• Consider a lockbox or smart lock you can control and revoke
• Keep valuables and documents secured
• Agree what happens to keys when the arrangement ends

8. Start with a trial

A trial clean shows the standard of work and gives both of you a chance to decide whether the arrangement fits.

9. Know how you will handle a problem

Items do occasionally go missing — and are frequently found later in the wrong drawer. If you suspect theft, avoid public accusations. Check thoroughly, ask the worker calmly, and involve the police only where you have real grounds. False accusations can destroy a livelihood; genuine theft deserves a proper report.

Both sides need protection

Domestic workers face their own risks: late or missing pay, extra duties added without extra pay, and dismissal without a chance to respond. A fair arrangement protects both sides with clear terms and written records.

A record both sides can rely on

RRSource lets households and house help build portable, verified Reputation Records. Either side can raise an issue, the other side can respond, and the outcome follows the evidence — so an unproven accusation stays unproven, and a worker who was paid late has a record of it. Creating a record is free.

Employment status, domestic worker protections and background check routes vary by country.